SaHF DMBC Volume 1 Edition 1.1.pdf - Shaping a healthier future

for detailed travel plans and improvements to public transport were highlighted. Some called
for more detailed analysis.
A wide range of comments were made about the delivery and implementation of the
consultation proposals. A number of stakeholders commented on the potential difficulties
and risks in handling the transition. In addition, concerns were raised about timescales, the
capacity of both acute and out of hospital services to meet demand and the financial position
of hospital trusts. More detailed impact assessments were called for (including equalities
analysis), and more information on the workforce strategy was requested. The importance of
public information was also stressed by some stakeholders, and the need for effective
integration was also highlighted.
While a couple of stakeholders made favourable comments about the consultation itself,
others criticised the consultation process and materials.
6.2.5 Summary of the consultation findings
Overall, there is support for many of the proposals outlined in the consultation document,
and a widespread acceptance of the case for change. Responses to the consultation
questionnaire indicate that there is majority support for the proposal that there should be five
major hospitals and for Option A. It is also worth noting that there has been clear and vocal
opposition to the proposed closure of A&E and other services in some areas, particularly in
Ealing and Hammersmith and Fulham.
All the different strands of the consultation highlight some clear concerns about the
proposals:
Their impact on accessing services – in particular journey times and public transport
accessibility
The capacity and ability of both hospital and out of hospital services to meet demand
and support the changes in how health services are delivered
The need for information on what these changes will mean for people in practice, as
well as when and how they should access particular services.
Potential changes to services, particularly where closures are involved, understandably
cause apprehension among those who may be affected. If the recommendation is approved
by the JCPCT, we recognise two key challenges that were raised during the consultation,
going forward. The first of these is to implement any agreed changes in a way that
addresses these concerns and the second is to explain clearly what the changes will mean
for people in practice.
6.2.6 Feedback received about the consultation process
During consultation we received feedback from stakeholders about the consultation process
itself and from the Consultation Institute. This included:
North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (JHOSC)
“In relation to the consultation process we believe that there has been a clear process based
on communication and explanation…..We believe that the consultation has been taken
forward according to a clear communication plan. We feel that the website and different
written material did get across the main arguments but fell short of actively helping people
get to grips with the likely implications for them, their families and communities.”
6. Consultation, feedback and how we responded 68